James Edward Haire

James Edward Haire started his first chapter of life on July 24, 1947 in Colquitt, Georgia to the late Dan Haire and Ethel Mae Haire. He moved to St. Augustine and then to Orlando in 1961 in union with his late step-mother, Leeanne Haire. James’ last chapter of life ended on August 23, 2026 in Aurora, Illinois with his wife, Sara Haire. James graduated from Jones High School in 1966 in Orlando, Florida. Shortly after graduation, he proudly entered the United States Air Force loyally serving and protecting our country while in the USA and from Europe. Following his military service, James and his nephew, Leroy Grimsley, opened their own business named L and J Fence Company. James then built a long and successful career working for Citrus Central which later became Crown Cork, and Seal. He became a supervisor with the company and then moved to Chicago in 1999 due to the closing of the company in Florida. He earned the respect and admiration of his friends and employees alike throughout his craftsmanship and work ethic. He retired with the company in 2009. James, affectionately known as "Big Daddy”, brought joy to everyone he met with his trademark sly humor and deeply loving heart that left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and community. Whether he was sharing a joke, telling a story, he knew how to create unforgettable moments. By the way, his “Big Girl” Raine, was not named after his favorite spot, the Rainbow. James found peace and happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time at parks and lakes where he could relax, enjoy nature, and talk with family and friends. He also loved traveling and especially making the drive back home from Chicago to Orlando. He cherished the freedom of the open road and the special memories with family and friends along the way. With his charming smile and sincere heart, he had a special way of making everyone feel welcomed and loved. His infectious personality and natural ability to make people laugh will be missed. He is survived by his wife Sara Haire. Sons: Marvin Haire, James Haire Jr. (Lakesha), and De’Travious Haire. Daughters: Jenine Haire Adams (Jerome) and Erica Haire Sumpter (Robert). Extended daughters: Monica Ashford (Guy), Keasha Wright (Daren), and Shaqueda Payne. James leaves siblings to rejoice in his memories: Horace Haire, Queen Williams (Clifford), Lucinda Sancho, and Bertha Pooler. James Haire was preceded in eternal rest by his siblings: AC Haire, Elijah Haire, Conny Haire, Benny Haire, George Haire, Majorie Haire, Betty Dickerson, Dandie Holmes, and Mae Francis Anderson. James Haire will be missed by 19 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Lifetime friends: Brian “Hog” Morris, Jessie Moody, and Tommy Lee Morgan.